If you were to ask me why you should move to Mijas Pueblo and surrounding areas, my first answers would be:
- Location. Location. Location.
- Views. Views. Views.
- Lifestyle!
Undoubtedly one of the most picturesque whitewashed villages on the Costa del Sol, Mijas Pueblo is a popular destination for a multitude of nationalities.
Mijas Pueblo boasts a beautiful cocktail of traditional Spanish living spiced with a spattering of cosmopolitan touches made by foreign residents who have chosen to make this special place their home.
Don’t let the figures quoted in many publications, stating Mijas as having the highest concentration of expats and foreigners, put you off. The municipality of Mijas includes Mijas Costa (La Cala de Mijas, Riviera del Sol and Calahonda), it is those areas where you will find a much larger British expat community.
The whitewashed village of Mijas is surrounded by the extensive mountain range of the Sierra de Mijas and plush green urbanisations, such as Mijas La Nueva, Las Lomas de Mijas, Santa Rosa, Doña Pilar and La Alquería, each offering the epitome of Mediterranean living to those who are fortunate enough to have the budget to afford it.
Let’s have a look at important factors to consider before going ahead with your decision to move to Mijas Pueblo …
Location:
Mijas Pueblo is located approximately 8 kilometres from the coast and 25 kilometres West of Malaga airport.
One of the factors many people take into consideration (or should take into consideration) when choosing where to live, is the proximity to the airport and other transport facilities. Especially if one of the family regularly travels for work purposes. It is also important if you are expecting frequent visitors.
It also boasts easy access to the inland countryside areas of Alhaurin el Grande, Coin, Monda and the Sierra de las Nieves and Malaga lake district area of Ardales and El Chorro.
Due to its elevated position, temperatures tend to be slightly cooler than on the coast and extra rainfall can be experienced during the winter months. In some areas, it is known to get quite windy at certain times of year too. it is important to seek local advice on this before investing in the wrong property (Remember, if it seems too good to be true … it almost certainly is!.
“Mijas offers quiet and tranquil living in beautifully natural surroundings, not forgetting those views, within a short drive of the hustle and bustle and liveliness of the Costa del Sol. “
(Lisa Sadleir, founder of Move to Malaga)
Transport:
Mijas Pueblo is an easy thirty-minute drive from Malaga airport (and that allows parking time!). Taxi transfers cost approximately 40€. There is a regular bus service, approximately every 30 minutes from Fuengirola and to other destinations. Download the bus timetable HERE
The overground train from Fuengirola offers a regular service along the coast to Malaga Capital, stopping at many places, including the airport, along the way. (More details here http://www.renfe.com/viajeros/cercanias/malaga/)
Although it is possible to survive with public transport from the village, it is preferable to have a car, especially if you are living in the surrounding areas.
Village living allows you to enjoy your day to day life on foot. However, a car is recommended if you want to get the most out of living in this area. It is so easy to get to so many places when you have your own transport. You are spoilt for choice for days out.
Property:
The popularity of Mijas Pueblo and surrounding areas is reflected both in the availability of (or lack of) both long term rental property and in the price of property for sale.
Long-term rental properties do not stay on the market for long, it is important to be in a position to secure a rental as soon as it hits the market. Be prepared to take on a property before you need it. It may initially feel like wasted money but you will thank yourself in the long run.
TIP: Use our Move To Malaga Property Finder Service to secure your ideal property or long term rental.
Property prices in Mijas vary drastically, subject to the location around the village and surrounding areas. You can buy a two-bed property for an average of €156,000 but be prepared to pay in excess of €500.000 for a 3 or 4 bed detached village with gardens and views.
Food & Drink
You will be spoilt for choice for places to eat and drink in Mijas Pueblo. From traditional tapas, menus del dia, cheese and wine, and international cuisine to fine dining, the village boasts it all. Needless to say, terraces in bars and restaurants are set up to enjoy meals whilst taking in the stunning views.
Whether you are looking for breakfast, lunch, evening meal or a simple snack, you will not be disappointed by the choice the village offers.
Sports, Activities and Entertainment
Once again, Mijas takes advantage of its geographical position. The village’s stunning outdoor auditorium is the venue for many live concerts throughout the summer months. Light and music shows are enjoyed in this natural surrounding.
A free flamenco show is offered to visitors in the main square every Wednesday and Saturday ???
It is advisable to pick up a copy of the free local newspaper, Mijas Semanal, to keep up to date with the numerous events and fairs that take place throughout the year, form International fairs, local ferias, jazz weekends, classic car shows and much more …
The Sierra de Mijas is a favourite with cyclists, trekkers and dog walkers thanks to its many guided pathways and varying terrain.
Just outside the village, in Osunillas you will find an outdoor municipal swimming pool, football pitch and indoor gymnasium offering many sports.
Education:
Nursery: Located in the main village square, Plaza Virgen de la Peña, Mijas Pueblo has a state-run nursery (guardería) for babies aged 4 months to children age 6 (when compulsory education begins). Subject to your own situation, you may qualify for a free state place or you can pay for a private place.
Primary and Junior Education: Before saying this, I will admit that I am totally biased, as both my children had a wonderful time at CEIP San Sebastian in Mijas Pueblo. The state-run school offers classes for children from age 3 to 12 years old. The school day runs from 9 am to 2 pm with early morning club, canteen and after school activities available as optional extras.
Secondary Education: IES Villa de Mijas offers secondary agent for ages 12 to 16 ???. This centre is notably smaller than the other secondary schools along the coast. However, it does not offer the final two years of obligatory education, the “bachillerato”. Students need to select another centre to complete these final years.
There are no International Schools nor British Curriculum Schools in Mijas Pueblos. If you are looking for this then you need to factor in a short journey to school each morning.(Read this article for nearby International schools: https://movetomalagaspain.com/english-schools-spain-mijas-benalmadena-area/)
Services:
Bureaucracy: The town hall, “ayuntamiento” in Mijas Pueblo can help you will Padron certificates, paying IBI and basura, paying car tax, applying for building permissions etc.
NIE and residency applications need to be made in Fuengirola (read more)
There are several banks and cash points in the village and also a post office.
Health: There is a small public health centre which operates from Monday to Friday. Please note there is no A&E centre here. A&E cases are sent to Las lagunas. There are a couple of private medical centres and also private dental clinics.
Shopping: There are several small supermarkets, butchers, fruit and vegetable shop, small indoor market and a bakery in the village. Larger supermarkets such as Aldi, Lidl, Carrefour and Mercadona are an easy 15 minutes drive from the village.
So, there you have just a few of the many factors to consider before you decide to move to Mijas Pueblo and surrounding areas. I am not saying that living in this area is for everyone but I can tell you that once you live here, it is very difficult to move anywhere else 😉 Why not come and visit and make your own mind up!
If you are buying a property in Mijas or planning to move to Mijas simply contact us and we will be happy to help you.
How can we help you?
For lots more advice and information about moving to Spain, check out my ebook “How To Move To Spain” and my very popular book ” Moving to Spain with Children” available via Amazon.
